Organised by Historians without Borders, this event brings together scholars, diplomats, and policy experts to explore the politics of memory and history in the current moment. Focusing on how not only Russia and other increasingly authoritarian regimes shape narratives of the past for present gains, and what the ideals of the German Vergangengheitsbewältigung could imply in the present, the discussions will examine strategies of remembrance, denial, and commemoration.

This high-level seminar will feature expert panels, diplomatic dialogue, and scholarly engagement on critical issues, including on how the history of colonialism is treated in public discourse and in history teaching, and on the evolving role of the past in shaping the present.

Date: Thursday January 15th 2026
Time: 14.00 – 17.00 (GMT+0)
Venue: The Institute of Historical Research, Wolfson conference suite, at the University of London, Senate House, Malet Street, London WC1E 7HU

The seminar will include a presentation of the principles and work of the international network of Historians without Borders and a discussion on how historians in the United Kingdom could contribute to the network and promote the use of historical knowledge
for peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

Registration:

Please complete the online registration form to confirm your participation.

For Remote Participants:

A freely accessible streaming link will be uploaded to the event page on ICD’s website.